Welcome to IAIER
The primary purpose of IAIER is to advance the development of responsible AI, ensuring that its benefits are accessible to a broad range of users, with a focus on expanding opportunities in emerging technologies.
Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER)
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) is a cutting-edge center for AI education, research, and innovation. With the establishment of this institute, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) aims to create a dynamic environment that drives interdisciplinary collaboration and harnesses AI to address critical societal challenges.
We are currently undergoing the formal process to establish IAIER within the University of North Carolina (UNC) System, further cementing its role as a pioneering hub for artificial intelligence at an HBCU and within the state.
$1M
Funding from Google.org
200
Students to Be Impacted
1st
HBCU AI Institute in the Nation
State of the Art
Estimated to be completed in 2025, this new estimated 5,000 gross square-foot building will provide needed space for a fully functional learning and research center for the institute. The building will have an open concept and transparent design for security purposes.
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research
Overview
The institute aims to impact over 200 students within the first two years, offering them robust opportunities to engage with AI-related fields through interdisciplinary courses, research, and mentorship.
Research Initiatives
IAIER is dedicated to pioneering research that addresses critical societal challenges through artificial intelligence, with a strong focus on ethical AI development and expanding access to transformative technologies.
Seed Grant Program
The Seed Grant Program at IAIER is designed to support early-stage research projects, innovative ideas, and pilot initiatives that align with the institute’s mission of advancing artificial intelligence and expanding its applications in meaningful ways.
People
Since 2025, IAIER has been led by Dr. Siobahn Day Grady. Click the link below to meet our team.
Affiliated Units
The Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) fosters collaboration across academic disciplines, building on the university's strong tradition of community engagement and service.
AI Emerging Scholars & Leaders Programs
Ready to lead in the age of artificial intelligence? Whether you're a student eager to dive into AI or a faculty/staff member looking to integrate AI into your professional growth—IAIER’s AI Emerging Scholars and Leaders Programs are your next step.
Partnerships
Resources
This interdisciplinary initiative aims to leverage the diverse expertise within our institution to advance in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI).
At IAIER in our Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (LAIER), we pride ourselves on staying on the cutting edge of innovation and computing. We research artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction and STEM. Learn more about our efforts.
Philanthropic support from our alumni, donors and stakeholders supports our work in training the next generation of technologists and AI professionals. Visit this page to learn about ways you can support IAIER.
Recent News
Beginning in fall 2025, students will be able to enroll in AWS Academy courses through the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research.
The partnership kicked off with OpenAI Academy, a hands-on workshop where the campus community explored real-world applications of AI tools like ChatGPT.
Siobahn Day Grady, Ph.D., turned a childhood interest in science into a career in computers and artificial intelligence, and encourages others to do the same.